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French onion soup is a classic dish that warms the heart and comforts the soul. With rich, caramelized onions swimming in a savory broth and topped with crispy bread and melted cheese, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests at dinner. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for many people around the world.
Why make this recipe
You should definitely consider making French onion soup because it offers deep flavors and can be very satisfying. The process of caramelizing onions highlights their sweetness, which, when combined with broth and herbs, creates a delicious meal. This recipe is not only straightforward but also allows you to enjoy an elegant dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can modify it to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
How to make Best French Onion Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baguette, sliced
- Grated cheese (Gruyère or Swiss)
Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized (about 30-40 minutes). Add sugar to help the caramelization process.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the wine (if using) and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add the broth and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with baguette slices, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to serve Best French Onion Soup
Serve the French onion soup hot right out of the oven-safe bowls. You can garnish it with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter for a meal. It’s perfect with a simple green salad or a light sandwich.
How to store Best French Onion Soup
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little water or extra broth to bring it back to the desired consistency. Avoid reheating the cheese, as it may not melt properly again.
Tips to make Best French Onion Soup
- Use a mix of yellow and sweet onions for added depth of flavor.
- If you want to skip the white wine, substitute it with an extra cup of broth and add a few drops of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Ensure to stir the onions regularly to prevent burning and to promote even caramelization.
Variations
Feel free to switch up the cheese! While Gruyère is traditional, you can use Swiss cheese or even a combination of cheddar for a different taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese and bread toppings before serving.
2. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and ensure the broth is also gluten-free.
3. Is it possible to make it without alcohol?
Absolutely! Use extra broth in place of wine, and add a little apple cider vinegar for flavor.
Best French Onion Soup
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic French onion soup with rich caramelized onions in savory broth, topped with crispy bread and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baguette, sliced
- Grated cheese (Gruyère or Swiss)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized (about 30-40 minutes). Add sugar to help the caramelization process.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the wine (if using) and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add the broth and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with baguette slices, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Use a mix of yellow and sweet onions for added depth of flavor. If you want to skip the white wine, substitute with broth and add apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: French onion soup, comfort food, soup recipe, classic soup, vegetarian dish